November Professional Development Meeting
2023-11-17 11:30 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, Nov 17 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch served* | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting
Attend our November Professional Development meeting with Kimberly Fowler, MAMC, for “How to Shoot Video like a Pro”. We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served: Orange Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Broccoli Beef, Chow Mein, Steamed White Rice, Fried Rice, and hot Apple Cinnamon Pockets.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

Holiday Cheer Celebration!
2023-12-16 17:00 - 19:00 | Elevation 89 at the Ocala International Airport, 1770 SW 60th Ave suite 800, Ocala, 34474
Join us for our HOLIDAY CHEER CELEBRATION evening event on Saturday, December 16, 2023; 5-7 p.m. at the Ocala International Airport, Elevation 89! Come dressed in your best festive attire for a chance to win a special gift from our chapter president.
The Chef will be preparing some of his favorites for us! Pierogis with bacon and sour cream, meatballs with fried rice, spinach artichoke dip with chips and bread, and beef sliders. Soda and sweet tea are included; alcoholic beverages are extra. Gluten-free and vegan options will also be available upon request.*
We will also be having our annual white elephant gift exchange and collecting canned goods and pantry items to restock the food pantry at Interfaith Ministries.
The cost to attend is $25 per person. Please enter in the amount below to pay through PayPal. If you will be paying by cash or check, please email your RSVP to FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.
*Please email our VP of Membership Tom Hyle at Tom.Hyle@swfwmd.state.fl.us by Thursday, December 14th if you have a specific dietary request.

Includes an appetizer buffet & non-alcoholic beverage.

January Professional Development Meeting
2024-01-12 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, January 12, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch – taco bar | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting
Attend our January Professional Development meeting with Pamela Calero Wardell, MBA, and delve into Annual Fundraising and how to leverage the power of community partnerships.

Pamela Calero Wardell is a seasoned professional specializing in fostering positive relationships and creative partnerships. With expertise in fundraising, strategic marketing, and team building, she has successfully led two capital campaigns, directed institutional rebrands, and achieved notable growth in subscription ticket sales. As the Executive Director of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and the Reilly Arts Center, Pamela has consistently driven revenue and ticket sales through strategic marketing, community engagement, and meaningful partnerships. Her achievements include significant increases in sponsorships, grants, and donations, showcasing her ability to attract and retain support for the organizations she leads.

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

February Professional Development Meeting
2024-02-09 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, February 9, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting

Attend our February Professional Development meeting with Patricia Vernon, APR, CPRC, UXC, and delve into the power of User Experience (UX) in Public Relations.

Patricia, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in public relations, marketing, and UX design, excels in meeting clients where they are, offering a spectrum of services, from email marketing to strategic communications campaigns, with a primary focus on UX considerations. With a rich background in industries such as commercial construction, healthcare, insurance, higher education, and fine arts, Patricia brings extensive expertise in developing and implementing integrated PR, marketing, and UX strategies aligned with business goals. Accredited with APR and CPRC credentials, Patricia is also certified in user experience (UXC), demonstrating her depth of knowledge in digital marketing and communications. Join us to explore the intersection of UX design and public relations strategies with Patricia!
A hot buffet lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m., followed by chapter updates at 11:45 a.m. The one-hour program, “Exploring UX Considerations in Public Relations Plans,” begins promptly at noon.

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
This month’s prepared lunch will be provided by Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza and includes pizza, salad, and garlic knots.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

March Professional Development Meeting
2024-03-22 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, March 22, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting

Attend our March Professional Development meeting with Lindsay Hudock, APR, CPRC, and State VP of Golden Image, to explore the new Golden Image submission process.

Lindsay Hudock, APR, CPRC is a senior instructor and the advertising and public relations degree program coordinator in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media at the University of Central Florida and a principal in Well Said Public Relations LLC with more than 20 years of experience in the field. She is an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association where she has served in various roles at the state and local level, including serving as president of the Orlando-area chapter in 2017/2018. In 2020, she was honored as the FPRA Orlando Area Chapter PR Professional of the Year. In her current role as State VP of Golden Image, she has been an integral part of updating the process to submit Golden Image nominations.

A hot buffet lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m., followed by chapter updates at 11:45 a.m. The one-hour program, “Using the New Process for Golden Image Awards,” begins promptly at noon.

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USDVirtual $10.00 USD

If you can’t make it in-person, choose our NEW virtual option for only $10!

May Professional Development Meeting
2024-05-10 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, May 10, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting

Attend our May Professional Development meeting with Blake Spires, CEO of Brilliant Bins, to “Tackle Social Media like an Entrepreneur”.

Blake Spires brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience and insight to the table. As the leader of a successful company providing innovative sanitation solutions for trash bins and dumpsters, he excels in navigating the world of social media with an entrepreneurial mindset.
Under his guidance, Brilliant Bins has grown to offer eco-friendly curbside cleaning services, utilizing a specialized sanitation truck to clean, sanitize, and deodorize bins using 200º hot water. This innovative approach kills 99% of bacteria and reclaims and filters wash water, ensuring an environmentally friendly process. With a strong background in business and a proven track record in leading his company to success, Blake is poised to share his expertise on how to “Tackle Social Media like an Entrepreneur.”

A hot buffet lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m., followed by chapter updates at 11:45 a.m. The one-hour program, “Tackle Social Media like an Entrepreneur,” begins promptly at noon.

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USDVirtual $10.00 USD

If you can’t make it in-person, choose our NEW virtual option for only $10!

June Professional Development Meeting
2024-06-14 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, June 14, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting

Attend our June Professional Development meeting with Jonathan Levy, WCJB TV20 News Director, and better “Develop Your Media Relations”.

Jon’s team is the only television news outlet with reporters living in Marion County and working out of an Ocala studio, bringing our community truly local news. Jon will provide insight into how to develop relationships with local media, what information local media needs to consider your story for broadcast, and how advertising with local media makes a huge difference in our community.
Jon moved to Gainesville from South Florida in 2001, completed two degrees at UF, and made a name for himself in radio as a Rock 104 DJ and WUFT journalist. He left North Central Florida in 2011, launching an all-news radio station for CBS in Washington, DC. Jon and his wife returned to Gainesville in 2015 as he started his career with TV20. He has been WCJB’s news director since 2017.

A hot buffet lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m., followed by chapter updates at 11:45 a.m. The one-hour program, “Develop Your Media Relations,” begins promptly at noon.

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USDVirtual $10.00 USD

If you can’t make it in-person, choose our NEW virtual option for only $10!

July Professional Development Meeting
2024-07-12 11:30 - 13:00 | Ocala FPRA Annual Awards Banquet and Gala, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Special Thanks to our Professional Development Meeting sponsor: Taylor College!

Friday, July 12, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. hot buffet lunch | 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates | noon – 1 p.m. Professional Development meeting

Attend our July Professional Development meeting with Dr. Matthew Cretul, Legislative Manager for the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.

Dr. Cretul collaborates with the Board of County Commissioners, county staff, and community stakeholders to advocate for Marion County’s legislative priorities at various governmental levels.
He will be discussing the crucial role of public relations in government affairs, providing insights into how effective communication strategies can help achieve legislative goals. His extensive experience in the field will offer attendees a unique perspective on navigating the intricacies of government relations. This session is a must-attend for anyone interested in learning about the intersection of public relations and government affairs.
AGENDA

11:30 a.m. Lunch Begins

11:45 a.m. Chapter Updates

12 p.m. Voting on the 2024-2025 Chapter Slate

12:10 p.m. ProDev Presentation

We will be meeting at Taylor College (2531 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470).
The cost to attend is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
*Hot buffet lunch will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meetings 2023-2024

FPRA Member $20.00 USDFPRA Non-member $25.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USDVirtual $10.00 USD

If you can’t make it in-person, choose our NEW virtual option for only $10!

Annual Awards Banquet/Gala and Pass the Gavel
2024-08-30 18:30 - 21:00 | FL
Join us on Friday, August 30th, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Appleton Museum for an evening of honoring our legacy, swearing in the new board, annual chapter awards, communicator of the year awards (COTY – individual and institutional), Lifetime Achievement award, and other special chapter member recognitions.
The cost to attend is $35 for all members and guests. Please click the paylink below to process your payment through PayPal:

October's Professional Development Meeting
2024-10-18 11:30 - 13:00 | District Bar & Kitchen, 110 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Storytelling Through Short Film and Media
Presented by Brandon Shenk from SirinFilms, LLC
Brandon Shenk is the co-founder and producer for SirinFilms LLC. He worked as a freelance production assistant for InterMedia Advertising and Brotherhood Studios and as an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University in Virginia.
His short films have been showcased at prominent festivals, including the Beverly Hills Film Festival, Brooklyn Film Festival, Hill Country Film Festival, TERMINUS Conference Festival, International Changing Perspectives Short Film Festival, Miami Independent Film Festival, and the Flamingo Film Festival.
He will be presenting on his experiences as a storyteller and how we can make the stories we tell stronger.

Schedule: Friday, Oct. 18
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting Oct. 18, 2024

FPRA Member $25.00 USD

FPRA Non-member $30.00 USD

FPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

November's Professional Development Meeting
2024-11-15 11:30 - 13:00 | District Bar & Kitchen, 110 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Creating the Ultimate Collab: How to leverage brand partnerships for earned media storytelling
Presented by Juliette Gebken-Mayí, Owner – JGM PR
After working as part of PR & Communications teams for nearly 15 years, Juliette understands the value an effective public relations professional can bring to in-house marketing teams.
Before starting her own practice, she led high-profile cross-departmental PR initiatives for global travel brands, including Travel + Leisure Co. (previously known as Wyndham Destinations) and Universal Orlando Resort.
At Travel + Leisure Co., she focused on developing impactful brand partnerships and consumer activations to drive publicity for the company’s timeshare clubs, Club Wyndham and WorldMark by Wyndham. Campaigns included a partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to create a suite inspired by the movie Elf, resulting in more than 2 billion earned media impressions, and an award-wining campaign that tapped into nostalgia to celebrate national s’mores day, featuring The Sandlot actor Patrick Rena.
During her eight-year tenure at Universal Orlando Resort, Juliette was part of the PR leadership team responsible for launching more than 30 new guest experiences, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, and the Volcano Bay water theme park. Juliette also led all U.S. Hispanic & Latin American media relations for the destination.
Most recently, she led the PR, Executive Communications and Content Marketing team at one of the nation’s largest virtual K-12 schools, Florida Virtual School. At a time when online education became the norm, her challenge was to fight the misconceptions brought by the pandemic through impactful storytelling that leveraged data, student stories and more.

Schedule: Friday, Nov. 15th
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking 11:45 a.m. Chapter updates Noon Professional development The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting Nov. 15, 2024

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

December Holiday Social
2024-12-12 17:30 - 19:30 | District Bar & Kitchen, 110 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Join us on December 12th from 5:30pm-7:30pm at our holiday social for drinks and networking at District Bar & Kitchen located at 110 SW Broadway St. Ocala, FL 34471.
In celebration of the holiday season and FPRA’s commitment to our community, we are hosting a drive to donate to TLC, Ocala. They are new members of our chapter and could use our help during the season of giving.
Transitions Life Center is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to provide a safe, caring and enriching community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
They provide their members opportunities to strengthen their independence, build friendships, expand their world, and grow in faith.
– Disposable Cups
– Disposable Silverware
– Disposable Plates
– Napkins
– Paper towels
– Individually packaged snacks for a pantry
For Additional Information and how you can help this wonderful charity, visit https://www.tlcocala.org/
Drop Off Location: Kristina Donohue – 352-895-2969
825 SE 8th St, Ocala, FL 34471
If you are unable to attend the social, please contact her to coordinate a drop off.
Deadline: December 12, 2024

January's Professional Development Meeting
2025-01-17 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Florida’s Public Records Laws: Empowering You with Transparency
Florida is known nationwide for its wide access to public records. From Sunshine Laws to personnel records and court filings, learn why this access is so important as citizens and public relations professionals. Our own Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, will share insight from his 30 years of dealing with public records requests. Discover the difference between what’s public and exempt, and learn how some of your most private information could, in fact, become public.
Presented by Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC
Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, is a highly respected communications professional with decades of experience in public relations and community engagement. As the Public Relations Officer for Marion County Public Schools, Kevin plays a vital role in shaping the district’s communication strategies, fostering transparency, and building trust within the community. An accredited and certified public relations counselor, Kevin is a leader in his field, recognized for his innovative approach, dedication to excellence, and commitment to mentoring future PR professionals. A long-time advocate for education and storytelling, Kevin combines his expertise with a passion for connecting people and ideas to drive meaningful impact.

Schedule: Friday, January 17
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting January 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

February - Professional Development Meeting
2025-02-21 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
TOPIC: Revitalizing Employee Engagement with an Internal Social Presence
Presented By: Devon R. Chestnut, APR, CPRC
Discover how Cox Communications revitalized a dormant internal social community and boosted employee engagement using Microsoft’s Viva Engage. Devon Chestnut will delve into the robust strategy and communications plan she implemented to breathe new life into their employee engagement efforts, creating a vibrant and interactive environment where employees feel connected, valued, and motivated. This approach can be applied to any internal social tool.
Join us to learn how Viva Engage has become one of Cox’s primary employee communication tools, driving collaboration, innovation, and a renewed sense of community within the organization.
Devon R. Chestnut, APR, CPRC
Devon Chestnut is the Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Cox Communications, Inc., the largest private broadband provider in the United States. Cox operates fiber-powered broadband networks across more than 30 states, delivering connections and advanced cloud and managed IT services to nearly seven million homes and businesses nationwide. In her role, Devon oversees the company’s digital communication tools, including the intranet, digital newsletter, internal social community, and content strategy platform, effectively engaging with Cox’s 15,000+ employees nationwide.
In 2022, Devon completed her term as President of FPRA, is a past president of the FPRA Gainesville Chapter, and is a current member of the FPRA Ocala Chapter. She is the Florida Public Relations Education Foundation Chair and Chairman of PACE Center for Girls – Marion. Devon is a proud Leadership Ocala/Marion Class 22 and Leadership Gainesville Class 37 graduate.
Devon’s work in public relations has earned her numerous accolades, including the John S. Detweiler, Ed.D, APR, CPRC, Professional of the Year from the FPRA Gainesville Chapter, an Association of Cable Communicators Beacon Award, the ESPN Good Sports Award, and multiple Local Image and Golden Image awards. In 2011, she was honored as a Gainesville 40 Under Forty and is a two-time recipient of the Cox Public Affairs Employee of the Year award.
A native of Ocala, Florida, Devon holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications. She earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 2012 and her Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC) credential in 2016.

Schedule: Friday, February 21, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting. The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served by Paisanos.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting February 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

March - Professional Development Meeting
2025-03-14 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
TOPIC: How to Media Train the C-Suite
Presented By: Joel Staley
In his presentation, “How to Media Train the C-Suite,” expert media trainer Joel Staley teaches you how to help your senior executives become better spokespersons. Following are a few of the things you’ll learn:

The tell-tale signs that a spokesperson needs additional training.
The situations that require additional training for any spokesperson, including experienced ones.
How to persuade reluctant senior leaders to receive media training.
The elements that constitute an excellent media or presentation training.
Teaching techniques that help senior leaders accept the counsel and coaching given during a media or presentation training.
How to increase the quality of simulated media interviews with trainees.

About our speaker Joel Staley:
As a bilingual public relations professional with more than 25 years of experience, Joel
Staley is an expert in media training, crisis communications, strategy, and messaging
development. He’s worked as SVP of brand & external communications for Seacoast Bank,
as a PR director for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts and as an account leader for global public
relations firms like Edelman, Burson and Hill & Knowlton. He graduated from Brigham
Young University with a Bachelor of Arts in public relations and is a 2016 PRSA Florida
Radiance Award winner for crisis communications, a 2021 National Boating Industry Safety
Award winner for Top Marketing & Boating Safety Outreach Campaign and a 2021 Marine
Marketers of America Neptune Award winner for Public Relations: “Boating Safety Outreach
Campaign.”

Schedule: Friday, March 14, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting. The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting March 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

May's Professional Development Meeting
2025-05-16 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Gen Z in the Workplace: Communicating Across Generational Differences
Presented by: Lindsay Hudock, APR, CPRC
Generational differences can be a source of conflict in the workplace, but they also can drive innovation and progress. It’s our ability to effectively communicate across generational differences that will determine if the growing generational diversity on our teams will be a strength that propels us forward or a stumbling block that slows our progress. By the end of 2025, Gen Z will represent 25% of the workforce and as a group they are wildly different from their Millennial, Gen X and Baby Boomer predecessors. Being prepared to attract and foster top talent from this key demographic will be critical to the success of our organizations and research into this new generation suggests communicators will play a critical role in doing that. Join us for a conversation about who Gen Z is, what they’re looking for, what you need to know to help them reach their greatest potential, and the critical role communicators will play in the successful integration of this next generation into the workplace.

About the Speaker
In addition to serving as president-elect on the state board of FPRA, Lindsay Hudock, APR, CPRC is a senior instructor and the advertising and public relations degree program coordinator at the University of Central Florida and a principal in Well Said Public Relations LLC with more than 20 years of experience in Public Relations.
As a faculty member of the Nicholson School, Lindsay works with aspiring PR professionals, teaching a variety of PR courses, overseeing all Ad/PR internships, and serving as faculty adviser of the student chapter of FPRA. In her work with Well Said Public Relations, she’s able to work with a diverse range of clients across the US to provide communication and leadership training and public relations counseling with a focus on the nonprofit community.
Hudock received her B.A. in advertising and public relations in 2003 and completed an M.A. in mass communication in 2005, both from the Nicholson School. She is an Accredited public relations practitioner through the Universal Accreditation Board and a Certified Public Relations Counselor through the Florida Public Relations Association. She is an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association where she has served in various roles at the state and local level, including serving as president of the Orlando-area chapter in 2017/2018. On the state board of FPRA she’s served as the VP of student services, VP of annual conference, VP of Professional Development, VP of Communication and PR, VP of Golden Image and President-Elect . In 2020, she was honored as the FPRA Orlando Area Chapter PR Professional of the Year and as the FPRA Member of the Year in 2024. She is also an active participant in many local nonprofits and community groups.

Schedule: Friday, May 16, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions or have pre-paid, please let us know by emailing FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

Powered by

June's Professional Development Meeting
2025-06-12 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Rebranding Space: How Space Florida is Shaping a New Narrative for a Changing Industry
Presented by: Alayna Curry, APR, Director of Public Relations for Space Florida
We’ve entered a new era in the space industry, one that extends beyond exploration into the realms of commerce and tourism. As Florida’s aerospace finance and development authority, Space Florida is at the forefront of building a thriving ecosystem to support a booming industry projected to reach $1.8 trillion in value over the next decade. Join us to learn how Space Florida is using strategic public relations to reshape public perception and fuel sustainable growth across the state and beyond.

Schedule: Thursday, June 12, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

Powered by

July's Professional Development Meeting
2025-07-10 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
July’s Professional Development Meeting
Presented by Ben Marciano, Mayor of Ocala

Program: In this session, the Mayor of Ocala will share how effective communication plays a vital role in leading a city and earning public trust. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain insight into how strategic messaging, transparency, and relationship-building contribute to strong civic leadership.

More about the Mayor:
For over 20 years, Ben Marciano has dedicated his life to serving the Ocala community. Starting as a health trainer, he quickly rose to become the executive director of the DeLuca YMCA, transforming it from one of the lowest-ranked facilities in the region into a thriving center for health and wellness. His passion for fitness and community service led him to co-found Zone Health and Fitness, a premier gym with two locations in Ocala, providing thousands of residents with resources to stay active and healthy.
Ben holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice from the College of Central Florida and has remained deeply involved with local law enforcement and community outreach. Now serving as Mayor of Ocala – one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation – he prioritizes public safety, mental and physical health, and community engagement. In his role as mayor, he oversees the Ocala Police Department, supporting and strengthening several community-focused initiatives. He was also instrumental in bringing back the Mounted Unit and introducing the first annual OPD Ball in 2024.
A dedicated advocate for youth programs and community service, Mayor Marciano works closely with organizations such as the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation, The Centers Ocala, Boys & Girls Club, The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, Project Hope, the American Heart Association, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Men’s Prayer Breakfast. He is also a strong supporter of mental health initiatives, partnering with programs like Wear Gloves, Saving Mercy, and local domestic violence and sexual assault centers. His commitment to youth and family services was recognized with the prestigious Chairman’s Award from the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, the organization’s highest honor.

Schedule: Thursday, July 10, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates – IMPORTANT UPDATE: During this time, we will be voting on the Board Slate for the incoming 2025 – 26 Chapter year.
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting July 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

Annual Awards Gala and Board Installation
2025-08-22 18:00 - 21:00 | Mary Sue Rich Community Center, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL, 34475, United States
Join us on Friday, Aug. 22, from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed’s Place (1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL 34475) as we celebrate our accomplishments and install our 2025–2026 chapter board.
This year’s banquet will have a formal, gala-style atmosphere. Please feel free to dress up and bring along a guest or two!
The evening will include a dinner banquet, an awards ceremony highlighting chapter members, communicators of the year and others and the swearing in of the new board.
Tickets are $50 per person.
We look forward to celebrating with you!

Powered by

September Professional Development Meeting
2025-09-19 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
September’s Professional Development Meeting
Presented by: Dr. Allison Campbell, APR, CPRC and Lisa Varner, APR, CPRC

Program: Join two of Florida’s most accomplished public relations professionals for an engaging and interactive session!
Dr. Allison B. Campbell, APR, CPRC, Principal of A&A Campbell Group, and Lisa Varner, APR, CPRC, Sales Manager at K-Country & Wind-FM, bring a combined 40 years of PR expertise across diverse industries.
In this Crash Course in PR Counseling, they’ll walk participants through real-world case studies designed to sharpen skills, refresh best practices, and provide actionable insights.
Perfect for new practitioners eager to learn and seasoned pros looking to recharge, this session will help you strengthen your PR counseling abilities and elevate your strategic communication toolkit.

Schedule: Friday, September 19, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting September 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

October Professional Development Meeting
2025-10-17 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
October’s Professional Development Meeting
From Strategy to Spotlight: Building Award-Winning Campaigns That Drive Results

Presented by Jen Houser, APR
In today’s competitive market, it’s not enough to have a great product or service—you need a smart, scalable marketing strategy that delivers leads and drives demand.
Join us for this Professional Development session where Jen Houser, APR, shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Creative Springs built a national communications campaign that not only strengthened brand awareness but also generated qualified leads.
This award-winning campaign earned top recognition from the Florida Public Relations Association, including:

Grand Golden Image Award
Golden Image Award for the MagnaTrack Screens video campaign
Award of Distinction for digital marketing

Learn how thoughtful strategy, innovative storytelling, and strong execution combined to deliver measurable results – and how you can apply these best practices to your own campaigns.
Don’t miss this chance to gain insights that will help you take your communications to the next level!

Schedule: Friday, October 17, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting October 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

Meet Jen Houser, APR
Jen Houser is the Founder and President of Creative Springs, a Florida-based marketing agency. With acute ability to cast vision, Jen leads her team in delivering innovative marketing solutions that drive success for their clients. Her career journey—from merchandising at Target Corp. in Minneapolis to helping build an experiential marketing staffing agency in New York City—has shaped her ability to blend creativity with strategy in a way that delivers real results.
At Creative Springs, Jen fosters a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and bold thinking, empowering both her team and clients to reach their full potential. Whether she’s creative directing a video shoot, crafting a digital marketing strategy, or listening intently to understand a client’s unique needs, she brings a joyful and insightful approach that fuels growth. She believes that marketing isn’t just about campaigns—it’s about building brands that inspire and make an impact.

November Professional Development Meeting
2025-11-21 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
November’s Professional Development Meeting
GenAI in Communications and Marketing: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Presented by Steve Orlando
Steve Orlando has worked at the University of Florida for nearly 30 years. As interim vice president for strategic communications and marketing, he is responsible for helping to guide UF’s overall communications strategy; advising and supporting university leadership, faculty and staff in interactions with the news media, public and social media; playing a leadership role in crisis management, and ensuring unity and consistency in overall university messaging. He also has served as an adjunct lecturer in UF’s College of Journalism & Communications, where he taught classes that included Reporting Lab, Magazine and Feature Writing, and Mass Media & You. Prior to joining UF, he spent nearly 10 years as a newspaper reporter, mostly for The Tampa Tribune. A two-time UF grad, he has a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in mass communication.
Don’t miss this chance to gain insights that will help you take your communications to the next level!

Schedule: Friday, October 17, 2025
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting November 2025

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

January Professional Development Meeting
2026-01-16 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Running a Political Campaign the Public Relations Way
Presented by Allision Campbell, APR, CPRC
Join us for our January professional development meeting and learn how Allison B. Campbell, APR, CPRC uses public relations strategies and tactics to create successful political campaigns. Allison will share the lessons she has learned over the years and how she was able to develop a memorable brand that resonated with voters in 2020 and 2024. Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from one of Ocala’s best public relations practitioners!

Schedule: Friday, January 16, 2026
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting January 2026

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

February Professional Development Meeting
2026-02-20 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Staying Ahead in PR: The Must‑Have Tools for 2026
Presented by Chris Gent, APR, CPRC
In today’s rapidly changing media landscape, public relations professionals need more than strong writing and strategy—they need the right tools. In this fast‑paced session, FPRA member Chris Gent will highlight the latest platforms, apps, and AI technologies reshaping how communicators research, create, pitch, and measure results. Attendees will walk away with practical, easy‑to‑use tools that can immediately improve workflow efficiency, elevate storytelling, and strengthen outcomes across any PR role. Perfect for pros looking to stay sharp, stay relevant, and stay ahead.
Chris Gent is a seasoned strategic communications and public relations professional with more than 30 years of experience in internal and external communications, media relations, and corporate philanthropy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Central Florida and a master’s degree in strategic public relations from The George Washington University, where he graduated valedictorian.
Chris is both accredited in public relations (APR) and a Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC). A long‑time leader in FPRA, he has served as president of the Orlando Area Chapter and later as state president. He recently completed a three‑year term on the Universal Accreditation Board, representing FPRA in oversight of the APR credential.
Schedule: Friday, February 20, 2026
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
Location
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
Registration
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting February 2026

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

March Professional Development Meeting
2026-03-13 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Golden Image Awards: The Essentials for Success in 2026
Presented by Chris Graham, APR, CPRC
Learn how to organize and submit your PR work for a Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Golden Image Award. It’s a prestigious annual award given by FPRA for recognizing outstanding public relations programs, tools, and campaigns. Established in 1957, these awards honor the best in strategic innovation, planning, and design, often considered the “hallmark of excellence” in the Florida PR profession.
Chris Graham, APR, CPRC, is the Communications Manager for AdventHealth’s West Volusia market, where he leads strategic communications and community engagement efforts. Chris is a former reporter for the Daytona Beach News-Journal and later became the first Public Information Officer for the City of DeLand, where he has served for nearly a decade, and guided the city through major crises, including hurricanes and COVID-19. Chris is a long time member of FPRA and has served for several years on FPRA’s executive committee, including three years as vice president of the statewide Golden Image Awards.
Schedule: Friday, March 13, 2026
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
Location
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
Registration
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting: March 2026

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

May Professional Development Meeting
2026-05-15 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Generative AI and the Law
Presented by Jane Bambauer, Law Professor, University of Florida
AI-generated text, images, and video are going to test the limits of media law and professionalism. This talk will discuss relevant developments in the law including copyright, defamation, right of publicity, negligence/products liability, privacy, and constitutional free speech protections.
Professor Bambauer is the Brechner Eminent Scholar at the Levin College of Law and at the College of Journalism and Communications. She teaches Torts, First Amendment, Media Law, Criminal Procedure, and Privacy Law. She’s conducted research assessing the social costs and benefits of Big Data, AI, and predictive algorithms and she’s also worked on analyzing the impacts of regulating these new information technologies.
Professor Bambauer currently serves as the Chair of the National AI Advisory Committee Subcommittee on Law Enforcement, and she has previously served as the deputy director of the Center for Quantum Networks, a multi-institutional engineering research center funded by the National Science Foundation. She holds a B.S. in Mathematics from Yale College and a J.D. from Yale Law School.
Schedule: Friday, May 15, 2026
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
Location
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
Registration
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting: May 2026

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD

June Professional Development Meeting
2026-06-18 11:30 - 13:00 | College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Say More With Less: The Smart Brevity® Advantage
Presented by Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC
In a world overflowing with words and shrinking attention spans, clarity isn’t just a skill — it’s a competitive advantage. Say More With Less: The Smart Brevity® Advantage teaches you how to craft crisp, compelling messages that break through the noise and get remembered.
Devon Chestnut is the Senior Manager of Corporate Communications for Cox Communications, the largest private broadband provider in the United States. Its fiber‑powered wireline and wireless connections reach over 12 million homes and businesses and support advanced cloud and managed IT services nationwide. In her role, Devon leads the company’s digital communication ecosystem—including the intranet, digital newsletter, internal social community, and enterprise content strategy—ensuring meaningful connection and engagement for Cox’s 15,000+ employees nationwide.
Devon served as President of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) in 2022, is a past president of the FPRA Gainesville Chapter, former chair of the Florida Public Relations Education Foundation, and an active member of the FPRA Ocala Chapter. She is also a proud graduate of Leadership Ocala/Marion Class 22 and Leadership Gainesville Class 37.
Devon’s work has been recognized with numerous industry honors, including the John S. Detweiler, Ed.D., APR, CPRC Professional of the Year Award from the FPRA Gainesville Chapter, an Association of Cable Communicators Beacon Award, the ESPN Good Sports Award, and multiple FPRA Local Image and Golden Image Awards. She was named a Gainesville “40 Under Forty” honoree in 2011 and is a two‑time Cox Public Affairs Employee of the Year.
A native of Ocala, Florida, Devon holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications. She earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 2012 and her Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC) credential in 2016.
Schedule: Thursday, June 18, 2026
11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking
11:45 a.m. Chapter updates
Noon Professional development meeting
Location
The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474). Once inside, please follow the signs to the meeting room.
Registration
The cost to attend is $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.
Lunch buffet will be served.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you have pre-paid, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com.

FPRA Professional Development Meeting: June 2026

FPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD
